The Finnish sauna is much more than a place to sit and sweat; it’s a living tradition – an essential part of Finnish life. Saunas hold a special kind of magic—they connect people, inspire reflection, and bring a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere.
In gathering stories for this post, I realized just how deeply rooted saunas are in Finnish culture—and in my own life. Growing up, these stories and traditions were always there, shared during family gatherings or chats with my parents and grandparents. It’s funny how, as a kid, I didn’t fully appreciate them; they were just part of life. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to see how special they are—living memories passed down through generations.
Our elders have so much to share about life in earlier times, and their stories reveal little details that might otherwise be forgotten. Saunas weren’t just places to relax; they were at the very center of everyday life. What is amazing is how close those times are—it’s not ancient history but the era of our grandparents’ parents. Life back then was simpler but also harder, and the sauna wasn’t just a luxury—it was essential.
Hearing these stories makes me feel connected to those times. It’s not just a tradition—it’s a part of who we are. Even now, the sauna remains a cornerstone of Finnish life, carrying with it the warmth, resilience, and ingenuity of those who came before us.
So with this being said, welcome to the Northern Star blog – the corner of the internet where you’ll find everything you need to know about sauna, Finland, the culture and the people. Here are 10 lesser-known facts about Finnish sauna culture that showcase its charm, significance, and enduring legacy.
1. Saunas as Political Spaces
In Finland, saunas have been used for more than just relaxation. Diplomacy and decision-making often took place in the gentle heat of a sauna. Finland’s former president, Urho Kekkonen, famously hosted foreign dignitaries in his sauna. It’s said that the informal, egalitarian setting helped smooth over many negotiations that might have faltered in a formal boardroom. Which world leader would you like to meet in the sauna?
2. Birth and Renewal
In earlier times, the sauna wasn’t just a place to cleanse the body—it was a space where life began. Before hospitals, many Finnish women gave birth in the sauna, which was considered the cleanest and warmest room in the home. The tradition speaks to the reverence Finns have for the sauna as a sacred and safe space.
3. Saunas Everywhere—Even More Than Cars
With over 3 million saunas in Finland, they outnumber cars. Nearly every home has access to one, whether it’s private or shared within an apartment building. Saunas are so integral to Finnish life that it’s said you’re never far from one, no matter where you are.
4. A Timeless Wellness Ritual
Long before wellness trends became global, Finns used the sauna as a way to recharge both body and mind. A mix of intense heat, icy plunges, and herbal treatments made the sauna a kind of all-purpose remedy. There’s an old Finnish saying that captures this perfectly: “The sauna is the poor man’s pharmacy.”
5. The Curious Case of the Sauna Hat
A sauna hat, or saunahattu, might look like a quirky accessory, but it has a purpose. It keeps the head from overheating and helps balance the experience of intense heat. For those spending extended time in the sauna, it’s an essential tool to stay comfortable.
6. Rules of Respect in the Sauna
Finnish sauna culture places a high value on respect and communal harmony. It’s customary to check with others before adding water to the hot stones, as the steam level affects everyone. The sauna is a shared space where the comfort of all is prioritized, reflecting its role as a place of equality and connection.
7. The Charm of a Wood-Burning Sauna
Although modern electric saunas are common, many Finns swear by the charm of a traditional wood-burning sauna. The crackle of the fire, the scent of the wood, and the gentle, even heat create an atmosphere that’s hard to replicate. For many, this is the true essence of the Finnish sauna experience.
8. Sauna and the Perfect Post-Sweat Drink
There’s a reason Finns often reach for a cold beer or refreshing beverage after a sauna session. The combination of deep heat and a chilled drink creates a sense of pure bliss. It’s a simple tradition, but one that perfectly captures the balance of intensity and relaxation.
9. Eat sleep sauna repeat
Many Finns use the sauna almost daily .. all year around! It’s not just for weekends—sauna culture is a regular part of life, whether for relaxation, health, or family time.
10. The Sauna’s Role in Life and Death
In the past, the sauna was considered the cleanest space in the home and played a significant role in both beginnings and endings. Before burial, loved ones were sometimes laid in the sauna as a final resting place. This ritual reflected the profound connection Finns feel to the sauna as a space for transition and reverence.
The Finnish sauna continues to inspire awe, not just for its soothing heat but for the way it brings people together. Stories of the past remind us that the sauna isn’t just a space—it’s an experience that ties people to the land, to tradition, and to each other.
As Northern Star looks ahead, the goal remains to share these authentic sauna experiences with the world. We are in November now, and we are already busy planning our Summer program for 2025. We are working with a couple of new partners in Finland, more new saunas to visit, and exciting and interesting people to meet.
Which fact stood out the most to you? Let’s keep the conversation going—because, much like the sauna, sharing stories is what brings us closer. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on our Summer 2025 sauna tours and experiences!
